Lately, Zoe York's books have taken a turn towards the dark side. Her writing is as masterful as ever, but the subject matter has veered more towards what one would expect from Fifty Shades of Gray (which I have not read). I'm not loving it. Therefore, I will focus on the parts I do love.
Multi-dimensional characters come alive - some histories are explained, personal ”issues” are revealed, and feelings are felt. But at times, it felt as if the plot was a thinly disguised vehicle for erotica. I'm not knocking erotica. If anyone can do that well, it's Zoe York. But I've come to expect more from her, and so I was a little disappointed when I didn't feel that familiar pull of understanding and identification with the characters. These are not characters who will stick with me, as there was nothing to make them particularly memorable (compared to her Wardham characters, for example). This is not to say her character portrayals were in any way lacking, but rather, they pale in comparison to some of her others. I was left wanting more.
To sum things up : If you're looking for hot sex scenes with realistic characters, you'll love this. If you're looking for a deeper exploration of said characters, including histories, motivations, and aspirations, as well as some expectations about what the future holds, you won't find that here - and that's okay.